When reviewing the use of alcohol by older adults, the nurse ...

[jace]

When reviewing the use of alcohol by older adults, the nurse notes that older adults have several characteristics that can increase the risk of alcohol use. Which would increase the bioavailability of alcohol in the blood for longer periods in the older a
 
  a. Increased muscle mass
  b. Decreased liver and kidney functioning
  c. Decreased blood pressure
  d. Increased cardiac output

Question 2

A woman who has just discovered that she is pregnant is in the clinic for her first obstetric visit. She asks the nurse, How many drinks a day is safe for my baby? The nurse's best response is:
 
  a. You should limit your drinking to once or twice a week.
  b. It's okay to have up to two glasses of wine a day.
  c. As long as you avoid getting drunk, you should be safe.
  d. No amount of alcohol has been determined to be safe during pregnancy.

[Mollythedog]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Decreased liver and kidney functioning increases the bioavailability of alcohol in the blood for longer periods. Aging people experience decreased muscle mass (not increased), which also increases the alcohol concentration in the blood because the alcohol is distributed to less tissue over time. Blood pressure and cardiac output are not factors regarding bioavailability.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
No amount of alcohol has been determined to be safe for pregnant women. The potential adverse effects of alcohol use on the fetus are well known; women who are pregnant should be screened for alcohol use, and abstinence should be recommended.